Electric Counterpoint by Steve Reich

Description

GCSE Music Flashcards on Electric Counterpoint by Steve Reich, created by Oliviax on 12/01/2015.
Oliviax
Flashcards by Oliviax, updated more than 1 year ago
Oliviax
Created by Oliviax over 9 years ago
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Resource summary

Question Answer
Structure? . Two main sections . Could be described as binary form with a Coda . Each main section is divided into 4 smaller sections which are defined by changes in key and/or texture.
Tonality/Harmony? . The key is ambiguous. . It has a modal feeling - no D#'s . It is based in E minor but the opening is ambiguous. The key is established by the bass. . There is an abrupt modulation to Cm. . Modulations occur more frequently towards the end of the piece. . Hexatonic scales are used . It is entirely diatonic.
Dynamics? . Not very contrasting. . The dynamic changes are mostly within the live part. . Crescendo's and diminuendo's. . There are fade-outs.
Rhythm/Metre? . 3/2 but changes to 12/8 too. . There is some syncopation as a result of rhythmic displacement. . Repetition of rhythms. . Accents result in a displaced metre. . There is frequent syncopation. . There is metrical displacement which means the the same motif is being played in different parts of the bar. . Little rhythmic variety.
Tempo? . 192 bpm . The tempo is fast and does not change throughout.
Texture? . Mainly polyphonic (contrapuntal) . It builds in layer and thins towards the end. . There is some counterpoint
Timbre/Instruments? . The recorded guitar ensemble is made up of 7 guitars and 2 bass. . There are 7 guitars and one live. . 7 guitars and bass are pre-recorded. . Bass parts are panned.
Melody? . Short ostinatos/motifs. . The resultant melody is played by the live melody. . Note addition. . Interlocking melodies. . Canon through different guitars repeating motifs.
What is a resultant melody? A new melody that emerges when two or more melodies are played at the same time, or when notes are taken from other melodies to form a new melody
What is counterpoint? Two or more different melodies sounding together
What is a hexatonic scale? A scale made up entirely of six notes.
What does 'diatonic' mean? Notes that belong to the current key
When was the piece first performed? In 1987
What style of music is this piece from and when was the style first developed? Minimalism was developed in the late 1960's.
What are the 6 key features of minimalism? 1) The repetition of simple ideas with small changes introduced gradually over time. 2) Melodies slowly built up through the process of note addition. 3) Layered textures 4) Diatonic harmonies 5) Slow harmonic rhythm 6) Little variety in instrumentation
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